First a train tunnel between Africa and Europe, now the Russians want to build the long-dreamt-of tunnel between Russia and Alaska. The tunnel would theoretically carry natural gas, oil, electricity, and fiber-optic wires.

The more and better tunnels we have for rail, the more competitive rail will be with less efficient transport systems like air travel. This is better for energy efficiency and therefore the environment.

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This project still has a lot of problems — it’s not like there’s a lot of spare rail up above the Arctic Circle, necessitating lots of construction — but I’m sure Ted Stevens is already salivating.

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